Deaths in St. Louis may be heat-related

(KSDK) -- St. Louis Fire Department emergency medical technicians responded to two deaths this weekend that could be heat-related.

Saturday afternoon EMTs responded to the 2000 block of College Avenue in north St. Louis. An 80-year-old man was found dead in his home.

An 84-year-old woman was found dead in 5900 block of Mimika this morning.

Deputy Chief Mike Arras says their preliminary investigation indicated both deaths could be the result of heat exposure.

City officials say they cannot confirm the deaths were heat-related until both autopsies are completed on Monday.

Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson says the record-high temperatures have caused an increase in their call volume. He says they have brought in extra ambulances to keep their response time low.

Chief Jenkerson urges everyone to remain vigilant during the heat wave. He asks that citizens remember to check on their friends, neighbors and family members and to call for help if there are concerns for anyone's safety.

Sixty-seven people have been treated in St. Louis County for heat related illnesses since the heat wave started. St. Louis County Departmen of Health Public Information Office John Shelton said seven peoplw were treated and released for heat-related illnesses at St. Louis County hospitals on July 1. Two people were admitted for treatment.